Welcome to Crookhey Hall School

Crookhey Hall School in Lancaster, Lancashire, has a rich history and specialises in supporting children aged 10-17 with social, emotional, and mental health needs, including those with Autism Spectrum Condition. The current school, opened in December 1993 as an independent secondary day special school, replaced a previous community special school that closed in August 1989. Owned by Outcomes First Group and operated by Acorn Care and Education Ltd, Crookhey Hall offers a tailored curriculum with accredited courses and vocational opportunities. The school features extensive facilities, including a large horticulture area and a catering department, all designed to support the unique needs of its students.

 

Jane Husbands – Headteacher

Jane joined Crookhey Hall School as Headteacher in October 2024, bringing with her over 25 years of experience in educational leadership. Throughout her career, she has held a range of senior roles including Headteacher, Deputy Headteacher, and Special Needs Advisor, working across a variety of specialist educational settings. Jane is deeply committed to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment where every member of the school community is empowered to thrive and achieve their full potential.

Beyond her professional responsibilities, Jane enjoys reading and exploring the outdoors, particularly walking in the hills.

 

 

Megan Blore – Deputy Head Teacher

Since joining in 2017 Meg Started as a teacher. She quickly progressed to Key Stage Lead and then Assistant Headteacher. Now serving as Deputy Headteacher, Meg holds the National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership (NPQSL). Their expertise is further complemented by their certification as an NLP Practitioner, enabling a strong focus on the mental and emotional well-being of our students. After spending a couple of years in a school improvement role within the wider company, Meg returned to Crookhey Hall, where she continues to lead with a dedication to improving outcomes for all students.
When not at work, Meg enjoys playing sports and spending time on dog walks with her cocker spaniel, Archie.

Andrew Speight – Deputy Head Teacher

Andy joined Crookhey Hall School in 2009 as a Learning Support Assistant and has since undertaken a range of roles, demonstrating his versatility and dedication to the school community. His career progression includes positions as Outdoor Education Coordinator, Behaviour Support Lead, Class Teacher, Assistant Head Teacher, and Deputy Head Teacher.

In addition to his hands-on experience, Andy holds the National Professional Qualification for Leading Teacher Development (NPQLTD), which has equipped him with the expertise to design and implement effective professional development programs that enhance teaching practices across the school.

Outside of his professional life, Andy values spending quality time with his family and has a strong passion for football, frequently watching matches during his free time”
 

Claire Bolton – Assistant Head

Claire began her journety at Crookhey Hall School in 2003 as a Learning Support Assistant. Demonstrating a steadfast commitment to professional growth, she completed her teacher training in 2015 and subsequently advanced through several leadership roles, including Head of English and Senior Teacher. In 2019, Claire was appointed Assistant Head of Progress and Attainment. Additionally, she serves as the school’s Exams Officer and Lead Careers Advisor, leading the school to secure the Quality in Careers Standard in 2024 . Claire is also on the verge of completing her National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership (NPQSL), a program designed to develop leadership expertise and improve outcomes for teachers and pupils.

Outside of her professional responsibilities, she enjoys renovating her new property and spending time with her Patterdale puppy, Jessie.
 

Abi Hill – Assistant Head 
Abi joined Crookhey Hall School in January 2019 as a Learning Support Assistant, where she quickly established herself as a dedicated professional, fostering positive and supportive relationships with pupils. Over the years, she has expanded her role, taking on positions such as Class Teacher, PSHE Lead, and Key Stage 4 Lead. Abi’s continued growth and dedication culminated in her current role as Assistant Head Teacher. Additionally, Abi is recognized as a Trauma-Informed Champion within the school, demonstrating her commitment to supporting the well-being of all pupils at Crookhey Hall School.

Outside of her professional responsibilities, Abi enjoys attending live music events and holds the distinction of being a highly competitive mini-golf champion.

 

Pauline Love – Designated Safeguarding Lead

Pauline began her journey at Crookhey Hall School in 2010, bringing with her a wealth of experience from managing an Entry to Employment programme for Post-16 learners. Prior to this, she worked as a preschool tutor in Australia, where she developed a strong foundation in early childhood education.

Transitioning to work with school-aged pupils at Crookhey Hall presented a new and rewarding challenge, broadening her understanding of the vital role early intervention plays in supporting educational, emotional, and social development.

In her role as Designated Safeguarding Lead, Pauline is a passionate advocate for providing holistic support to children and their families, she is deeply committed to ensuring a safe and nurturing environment, prioritising the welfare and protection of all pupils at Crookhey Hall School.

In her free time, Pauline values being with her family and takes great care in providing her dogs with a joyful, healthy and happy life.

 

 

Michael Savage – SENCO

Michael graduated from Lancaster University with a degree in History before undertaking a PGCE to pursue his passion for teaching History at secondary level. With over 22 years of experience in both mainstream and specialist education, Michael brings a wealth of knowledge and commitment to his role.

He joined Crookhey Hall in 2019 as a Humanities teacher, drawn by his strong interest in supporting pupils with additional needs. Since then, he has taken on various roles within the school, including teaching PSHE, serving as Head of Key Stage 3, and working as Assistant SENCo.

Michael currently holds the position of SENCo and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead, where he continues to champion inclusive education and the wellbeing of all pupils.